JAMA 320, 146–155 (2018)

The wearing of a diagnostic device increases the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (AF) and subsequent engagement with appropriate healthcare.

AF is the most common sustained arrhythmia, and it substantially increases the risk of stroke in affected individuals. Its diagnosis is important for correct prescription of anticoagulants to reduce the risk of stroke and is currently made during screening at regular medical checks.

In a clinical trial, participants at high risk for AF wore a self-applied wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) patch that could diagnose AF. The rate of AF diagnosis and engagement with healthcare were higher among individuals who wore the device.